Thank you to all who joined us for Oral Health Day 2025! The virtual event gathered hundreds of professionals from across the state to address the science, safety, and shifting narratives surrounding fluoride.
If you couldn’t make it, you can watch the full recording. Below you will find recap information on “Fluoride Access in our Communities”.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Johnny Johnson, DMD, MS
Pediatric Dentist, Co-Founder & President of the American Fluoridation Society
Dr. Johnson’s presentation summarized: fluoride is not just about preventing cavities – it’s a critical tool in preventing a significate proportion of dental decay, as well as preventing serious, life-threatening infections and disease. He shared powerful stories and clinical images to show how untreated dental infections can escalate quickly into systemic health issues.
Key message:
“It’s not just about teeth. Oral infections can – and do – lead to fatal outcomes. Community water fluoridation is a life-saving public health measure.”
He also tackled misinformation head-on:
- IQ and health concerns? No credible studies show harm at 0.7 ppm – the standard fluoridation level.
- Is fluoride natural? Yes – it’s found in all water. Fluoridation simply adjusts it to the optimal level for dental protection.
- Who supports it? Over 100 global health organizations – including the AAP, CDC, WHO, and ADA – endorse it based on decades of rigorous science.
Expert Panel Takeaways
Dr. Rhonda Stevens, DDS, MPH (Professor, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health):
We need new strategies. Simply saying “fluoride is safe and effective” isn’t enough anymore – we must be agile, evidence-based, and emotionally resonant.
Dr. Steve Slott, DDS (Community Dentist and Fluoridation Leader):
Fluoride opponents recycle the same arguments. The science continues to refute them – we just need to keep sharing it clearly and confidently.
Dr. Tim Wright, DDS, MS (Professor, UNCA Adams School of Dentistry, Journal of the ADA editor-in-chief):
Telling the story is key. People tune out statistics – they respond to human impact.
Big Picture Messages
- Health Risk Is Real: Dental infections can affect the brain, lungs, and heart causing disease. Fluoride (both systemic and topical) helps prevent these risks before they start.
- Equity Matters: Low-income and rural communities benefit the most – and are most at risk if fluoridation is lost.
- Science Still Stands: The most credible global reviews show fluoride at recommended levels is safe and effective.
- We Need to Speak Up: Advocacy and education – especially to policymakers and hesitant dental professionals – is more important than ever.
Bottom Line:
Fluoride remains one of the most impactful public health interventions of our time. As misinformation spreads, it’s more important than ever to share the facts, tell the stories, and protect access to preventive care.
🦷 Fluoridation isn’t just about dental health — it’s about equity, safety, and saving lives.
Stay Connected & Engaged to Oral Health Initiatives in NC
Thank you again to everyone who made Oral Health Day 2025 a success! As our expert speakers discussed, we must continue to educate and provide resources on fluoride and fluoridation for the health of communities across our state.
To stay informed about our ongoing programs and initiatives, including those related to access to fluoride in NC, we invite you to sign up for our monthly newsletter. Stay connected, stay informed, and continue to be a part of our mission to improve oral health for all North Carolinians. We are grateful for your ongoing advocacy and partnership!
Resources
Into the Mouths of Babes (IMB) Program